Fortress Park (Parcul Cetățuia) is a park located on Fortress Hill in Cluj-Napoca which provides the most beautiful panoramic views over the city.
The hill which is shaped like a plateau has an altitude of 405 meters. The first Vauban-type fortification in Transylvania was built here by the Habsburgers in the 18th century. The fort has also been used as a prison and during the revolution of 1848, pastor Stephan Ludwig Roth, one of the heroes of the revolution, was imprisoned and executed there. From the fortification that gave the name to the hill and park, only a part of the fortification walls, parts of some buildings, and two entrance gates remain today.
The hill became a park in 1900, two years after the death of Empress Elizabeth (better known as Sissi), the wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. A statue of the deceased empress was erected on the southern promenade of the hill.
On the hill you can also find the Monument to the Heroes of the Nation, a large cross that can been see from afar. The monument, built in 1995, is dedicated to the martyrs of the Revolution of 1848.
Fortress Park itself has a sports field, outdoor fitness equipment, a childrens playground, and several walking paths with view points. There is also a hotel with a restaurant and another panorama terrace with a bar.
